Save Money by Having Your Car Keys Cut and Programmed at an Ace Store
It can be stressful to lose or break keys, especially if you have to pay a high fee at your local car dealership. The good news is that you can save money by having your spare car keys cut and programmed at an Ace store close to you.
What is Key Cutting?
Key cutting is a skill that ensures security, convenience and peace of head for car owners. It requires advanced machinery to accurately shape keys to ensure that they function smoothly and do not damage the ignition. This is essential in the event that you require an extra key or have lost your keys. This process takes only a few minutes and can help you avoid having to call a professional locksmith in the situation of a lockout.
The key-cutting process differs based on the complexity of the lock and the type of key that you require. Keys that are transponder or intelligent for instance, employ encryption to stop unauthorized reuse of the car key. In addition they require specific programming and configuration for proper operation. When changing locks, or if you are trying to make a new key out of an old one that does not have the correct code, the key duplicate process can be more complicated.
Many people choose to duplicate their keys and keep a spare especially when they move into a new home or want to give copies to family members and friends members. Before you try this at home, it's important to understand the distinction between key cut ting and duplication. It's crucial that you make use of the right equipment and the proper methods for each to ensure that a high-quality key is produced.
Copying your keys is a pain and if done improperly it could result in faulty copies that will not fit correctly or even be able to open the lock. Bring your current working keys to a shop that offers key duplication services to make sure that your keys are duplicated correctly. This will allow the associate to match it up with the key blank and trace its contours onto a precise key cutting machine onsite.
You can also avoid paying a high price for an replacement key at a dealer by bringing your keys to a key-duplication shop. You are also able to take advantage of the discounts offered by shops that allow customers to bring their own keys in for duplication.
Keys Types
There are a variety of keys available on the market, each offering a unique balance of convenience and protection. Cylinder keys, for instance, are simple and widely employed in commercial and residential settings, while mortice keys are an essential part of traditional buildings and offer more security features. Similarly, tubular keys have a cylindrical shaft that fits into a tubular pin tumbler lock commonly used for securing bicycles and sheds.
Modern keys can be programmed to work with specific vehicle systems in addition to the various cutting methods. This is typically done by a locksmith or a dealership with the right key programming equipment.
For instance some of the most popular modern car keys are shaped like remotes, and do not need to be turned in order to start the vehicle. Smart keys are equipped with an embedded microchip that has been programmed for the specific car model and make they use. They can only be programmed and cut by locksmiths who are member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
It's always recommended to keep a spare car key especially if you reside in a region with high rates of crime. The reason for this is that car theft has become a relatively frequent and easy crime. If you do lose your car keys it's important to have them duplicated quickly so that you can get back on the road and not spend time looking for your vehicle.
A standard key can be duplicated with a standard machine. However, more advanced keys require special equipment and technicians with the proper skills to accomplish this. Laser cut keys for instance, have a pattern that consists of long valleys rather than the ridges typical to older keys. They are also more difficult to duplicate because of their complex shape.
Another type of key that requires a professional to cut is the transponder key. They are a typical feature on newer vehicles and can only be duplicated by a certified locksmith who has the proper programming equipment. This is because they have a microchip inside which needs to be programmed to the vehicle in order for it to start.
Tools Used
You'll require several tools to cut keys professionally. A key duplication machine is needed to cut and duplicate standard keys and automotive keys. You'll also need a key decoder, which offers measurements for Kwikset, Weslock, Schlage, and master keys. You'll also require a lockpick set and a tool with a long reach in order to unlock cars. These tools are used to manipulate pins within the lock cylinder, allowing the door to be opened without damaging the lock.
There are several different types of key cutting machines, and each one is suitable for a particular kind of lock. Manual key cutters require the user to manually move keys through the tracing wheels and cutter wheels. This is perfect for locksmiths who are new or mobile who only need to cut one or two keys at the same time. The JMA Nomad and Silca Flash are great options for a manual key machine.
A machine that is automatic does all the work for you. However, it is more expensive than a manual model. The Silca 040 is the top automatic machine that is currently available.
Another essential tool is a vice that is used to hold the key in place when it's being filed into shape. A large vise would work well for a car and a smaller vise will do for the van. A quality vise will last for a long time and it will be easier to keep your key in place while filing.
You could also think about adding a padlock shank your toolbox. It can be used to remove padlocks by putting the thin metal piece around the shackle. You'll require a lockpick set and an instrument to manipulate the pins in the keyhole of a locking device. These tools are particularly useful when picking locks that are difficult to open using regular keys like those that are found in cars and commercial buildings.
A broken key extractor will allow you to take out the broken piece of a key that has become stuck in the key hole. This is a great tool to have and it can be found in some basic car opening kits or purchase it on its own.
Safety
It's more than just a simple metal shaping. It's an art form that provides security, comfort and peace of mind to the owner. This process involves specialized machinery and software. This procedure should be carried out by an accredited locksmith or a car dealership. A key cut incorrectly could cause damage to the lock leading to cost-plus expenses for replacement or repair. Additionally, a cut that isn't done correctly might not fit correctly and may cause further problems.
It is crucial to choose a professional who will cut your spare key with a high-quality knife and ensure the proper positioning of chip. Cheaper blades often result in poor quality cuts, causing the key to wear more quickly and could break within the lock cylinder. It is also important to ensure that the key is made of the correct type of metal. Some websites sell sidewinder chips that are of low quality, which could damage the machine used to cut keys or cause keys to malfunction.
After the key cutting, if your car has a transponder key or smart key it will need to programmed. These keys use encryption so that only the correct key can start the vehicle. If you decide to make use of a home key duplicate service, they may not be able to program the new key properly.
It is recommended that you have an extra car key for these types of vehicles, so you don't lose the original or lock it in the vehicle. This is especially true if you share your car with your family members. Having a spare car key allows each family member to have a separate key chain or lanyard that will stop lockouts from happening accidentally and the theft of the key.
Examine your basic warranty coverage and roadside assistance. This can save you money if it is covered. A spare key will also help you if your car battery fails or you are running out of gas. This will allow you to return to the road quickly, without having to wait for a tow truck, or be stranded in the cold.